Page 61 of Secrets of the Marriage Bed

‘We did for the larger projects, but you know simply adding a few flowers and changing the curtains and furniture made a huge difference.’

‘Perhaps more flowers are what Sackfield needs.’ It needed something to turn into a home instead of a mausoleum.

‘The gardens there are lovely, so I am told.’

‘They are.’ As was the apple orchard. And the bedchambers. She quelled the memory, but something must have shown in her face because Ellie gave a delighted little chuckle.

‘Oh, you newlyweds. I suppose you will soon be thinking about setting up your nursery.’

A weight descended on her chest. The weight of her failure as a wife. More hot blushes scalded her cheeks.

Ellie chuckled wickedly, completely misinterpreting her embarrassment.

Beauworth glanced over at his wife with a fond smile, his expression changing in an instant from stern to loving. Alistair’s expression, on the other hand, remained coolly aloof.

‘Why not take Her Grace up to the nursery when you have finished your tea?’ the Marquess said. ‘I am sure she would like to meet our chicks.’

Ellie looked at her doubtfully. ‘Would you indeed? I am a terribly proud mama. Utterly boring on the subject, if you must know. We have two little lords and one very demanding young lady in our nest.’

Julia couldn’t remember the last time she’d been among any little ones. ‘I would love to meet them.’

‘You are not saying that to be polite, I hope,’ Ellie said, frowning.

‘No. I mean it, quite sincerely. Since we are to be friends, I promise you, I will never lie or pretend.’

‘Nor will I,’ Ellie said, nodding firmly. ‘How splendid.’ She glanced over at her husband. ‘Can you manage without us?’

The Marquess bowed, but there was a twinkle in his dark eyes. ‘With difficulty, my love. I gather the Duke and I have a matter to discuss.’